Accounting at Rasmussen University-Minnesota

Rasmussen's accounting program costs substantially more than the average Minnesota accounting degree—$39,938 versus a state median of $26,978—yet delivers earnings in the bottom 40% statewide. Starting at $53,285, graduates earn roughly $5,200 less than the typical Minnesota accounting graduate and nearly $12,000 below what students from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities make. This debt premium without an earnings advantage is difficult to justify, especially for a program serving predominantly working-class students (51% receive Pell grants).

The modest 5% earnings growth over four years suggests limited advancement potential compared to stronger programs. While the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.75 isn't catastrophic, it's manageable primarily because federal loan limits capped borrowing—not because the program delivers strong returns. With 31 accounting programs across Minnesota, including several public universities with lower debt loads and higher earning outcomes, families have considerably better options.

If your child is committed to attending Rasmussen for scheduling or location reasons, understand you're paying a premium for convenience rather than career outcomes. The program won't close doors, but it's unlikely to open as many as alternatives that cost less and pay more. For most families, particularly those without significant savings, exploring other Minnesota accounting programs would be financially prudent.